Perfectly homogeneous foods, drinks thickened to the right level of consistency, correct postures during swallowing and more. There are also some valuable tricks to improve the life of a dysphagic.
Here are 5 practical tips that can help improve the life of a dysphagic patient:
- Proper posture during the meal
Posture is critical for proper swallowing. The ideal position is sitting, with the patient having forearm supports and feet resting on the floor. In bedridden patients, it is advisable to elevate the trunk with the help of pillows. - A quiet and comfortable environment
The environment in which the meal is eaten plays an important role. Choosing a quiet, peaceful and well-lit place helps the patient focus on swallowing and reduce stress. - Eat calmly and carefully
Haste is the enemy of swallowing. It is important to chew each mouthful well and swallow calmly, without distractions. The duration of the meal should not exceed 45 minutes to avoid fatigue and loss of concentration. - Maintain posture throughout the meal
Once the correct posture is found, it is important to maintain it throughout the meal. Even small movements of the head or hands can hinder swallowing. - Oral hygiene after the meal
After the meal is finished, it is important to keep the patient in the same position for about 15 minutes. Afterwards, proceed with thorough oral hygiene to remove any food debris from the oral cavity and prevent the risk of aspiration.
These are just a few practical tips that can help improve the life of a dysphagic patient. It is important to remember that each case is unique and that the nutritional plan should be individualized according to the specific needs of the patient.
